Philippines loses Three Thrillas in Manila

The Philippines lost all three games at home during the FIBA World Cup 2023, but each game was a Thrilla in Manila.

Araneta Coliseum, which hosted the legendary Ali-Frazier “Thrilla in Manila” bout in October 1975, was sold out for every game of the “Gilas” from the Philippines, an archipelago mad about basketball even before they won bronze at the FIBA World Cup in 1954 in Rio de Janeiro. 

Unfortunately, the host nation landed in a treacherous group and lost three roller-coaster games to Caribbean powerhouse Dominican Republic, athletic Angola and sharp-shooting Italy. But all three games were among the most exciting in FIBA early round history. 

Needing to win by 13 points in order to advance to the second round, the Gilas came out pumped and often led in the first half. But after stepping out of bounds on a three, the Gilas lost focus and fell behind amid a rash of turnovers and errant shot selections. As with their loss against Angola, Philippines mounted a come-back late in the game but Italy continued to make shots to put out any Pinoy fires. 

After the game, a distraught Jordan Clarkson (who cried after a valiant effort in defeat to the Dominican Republic) walked off the court ahead of his teammates who huddled near their bench. But the Italian coaches hugged him out of respect for his efforts. 

The Italians, like others, could recognize that the Gilas could be a team of the future. This current team often played like they were thrown together at the last minute, and they often lacked proper spacing, timing and chemistry on court, leading to turnovers or blown defensive coverage. 

They already have some of the best fans in the world, and they have the perfect venue for any future Thrilla in Manila. 

words and images copyright Christopher Johnson Globalite Media all rights reserved